Coldplay: The Best Song On Each Studio Album
6. 42 - Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends
Coldplay continued to master their craft with their fourth studio album, delivering multiple excellent tracks on the record. Viva la Vida is the song that often gets the greatest recognition from 2008's Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends, but 42 is where Coldplay truly shines.
The lyrics explore ideas of remembering people and things that are no longer part of one's life; it's a difficult reality all people face at some point. The song begins with a soft piano and a reserved vocal performance from Chris Martin, but they are soon accompanied by rising strings.
As the sound slowly builds in strength, Will Champion enters with a subdued drum beat. After the track passes its midpoint, a guitar solo pushes the energy and momentum forward as the drums pick up in intensity.
The last couple minutes feature energetic drumming and a passionate vocal performance from Martin. Everything comes together to create a sense of motivation or increased determination in the listener. Coldplay's ability to make an emotional connection with their listeners is on full display throughout this entire track. Work like this is difficult to ignore.